Asking for an adjustment does not need to be complicated.
The mistake people make is thinking they have to either disclose everything or say nothing.
You can be practical instead.
Basic template
Subject: Recruitment adjustment request – [Role title]
Hi [Name],
I am applying/interviewing for the [role title] position and would like to request a recruitment adjustment.
The standard [interview/assessment/application] format creates a barrier for me because [brief functional impact]. To participate fairly, I am requesting [specific adjustment].
I am happy to discuss an alternative adjustment if needed.
Kind regards,
[Name]
ADHD example
I am requesting a recruitment adjustment for the interview. Because of ADHD-related working memory and processing barriers, it would help me participate fairly if the questions could be provided in writing, with a short amount of reading time before I answer.
Autism example
I am requesting recruitment adjustments for the interview. It would help me participate fairly if I could receive the interview format, panel size and assessment steps in advance, and have the questions provided in writing.
Physical access example
I am requesting a recruitment adjustment for the interview. I require an accessible venue with lift access and suitable seating. Please also provide clear information about parking, entry and the location of the interview room.
Chronic illness example
I am requesting a recruitment adjustment due to a health condition that affects stamina. It would help me participate fairly if the assessment activities could include breaks or be scheduled separately.
The rule
Be specific about the adjustment.
You do not need to provide more personal information than is needed to understand and arrange the request.
Useful next steps
If this topic is relevant to your application, these related Team 3Thirty guides are the best places to go next:
- reasonable adjustment examples
- disclosing disability in a government application
- what if an adjustment request is refused
Useful resources
These official resources are worth checking if you need the source guidance behind the adjustment examples: